crisis pregnancy

She Deserves Better

Girls may not be surprised to know that the guys around them are often viewing pornographic movies, Web sites and magazines. With so much pornography in our culture, girls need to be aware of the dangerous lies porn tells men about women. Here are a few of the lies girls should listen for in the language, attitudes and behavior of young men:

Women are less than human. Think about it. Women are referred to as "bunnies," "playmates," "pets" and many other names unsuitable for print. Pornography makes women mere objects — things — for the purpose of giving men sexual pleasure.

Women are "sport." Sex is a game; women are the prize. The winner "scores" with his date. Every winter, sports magazines dedicate entire issues to women in skimpy swimsuits.

Women are property. A woman is not portrayed as an independent, spiritual human being equal to men in God's sight. Porn suggests that she exists to be used, controlled, owned and then discarded.

A women's value depends strictly on her appearance. Pornography places ultimate importance on how a woman looks. It values beauty and sexual attractiveness, discounting personality, intelligence and character.

Women really want to be "dominated." Aggressive sexual behavior is the norm. The theme for pornography is "when she says 'no,' she really means 'yes.'" This is also referred to as "the rape myth." Whatever we call it, it's selfish and wrong!

Teach your daughter to identify these lies — even if they're said in jest. Encourage her not to tolerate any disrespect from any boy. It's never okay. Guys quickly learn which girls they can treat like trash. Remind your daughter that she is a valuable human being, regardless of physical appearance. Dads in particular should point out the skills and gifts that make their daughters precious creations from God.

Background Information

Behind the Scenes of a Teen Pregnancy
A look at the thoughts and feelings she — and you — are going through.

Abortion Risks
While abortion seems like a "quick fix" for a long-term problem, it is a permanent decision that carries physical, emotional and spiritual risks.

Deciding About Adoption
When considering adoption as an alterative to raising your baby, these answers may dispel adoption myths.

Questions and Answers

Why do I feel like this pregnancy has pulled me in so many different directions? I feel so overwhelmed with all the ramifications of this decision I must make. How can I sort it all out?
Answer

My pregnant daughter has her whole life still ahead of her. Would it be better for her to place her baby with a family through adoption, parent her baby or have an abortion?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Things Seen and Unseen
A woman in a white coat walked into the room and flipped on the fluorescent lights, jarring my wife awake. The jarring was just beginning.

Left to Suffer
Abortion can leave a woman feeling more empty and alone than she ever dreamed possible.

Life is Sacred
Sometimes the choices we make bring pain. Thankfully, one woman turned to God for healing.

Taboo Grief: Men and Abortion
It's not something most men talk about, but the ones who've lost a child to abortion bear many scars.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

Faith Helps
God may be the only person who understands what you're going through.

What the Choice is All About
For a long time it baffled me. I could never understand why anyone would want to be pro-choice. But this past week I finally got it.

RelationshipsBlended Families, Parents and Adult Children

TransitionsPreparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest